Episode 10: The Tale of the Fisherman and the Fish
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Soundcloud | Ancient Faith
This classic, which was written down in verse by Alexander Pushkin, Russia’s greatest poet, is a cautionary tale about the danger of desiring too much. No villains or heroes in this one, just some unexpected magic from a talking fish… and the surprising lengths to which some people will go when given a bit of power. Perhaps, in a way, this is a perfect story for election season.
In the analysis section, Nicholas Kotar reads a short essay from Ivan Ilyin on the necessity for everyone, in times of crisis, not to search for answers outside, but to begin the hard work of inner transformation. It is a consoling, but challenging, message that transcends partisan lines, and reminds us of what’s really important, and how we can begin to effect real change in our world, even today.
Original music by Natalie Wilson.
If you enjoyed this podcast, you may also like my essay “A Passport to Russian Fairy Land,” in which I guide you through the opening lines of Russian Fairy Tales, help you interpret cryptic fairy tale phrases, and introduce you to the infamous Baba Yaga herself! Enter your email and I’ll send your passport!